EVALUATION OF FUNCTIONAL RECOVERY FOLLOWING EARLY MOBILIZATION IN DISTAL RADIUS FRACTURES TREATED WITH VOLAR PLATING

Abstract

Distal radius fractures are frequently treated with volar locking plate fixation, which provides stable internal fixation and permits early postoperative mobilization. However, evidence regarding its impact on functional recovery remains evolving. Objectives: To evaluate functional recovery following early mobilization in patients with distal radius fractures treated with volar plating. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 40 patients with distal radius fractures managed with volar locking plate fixation. Early mobilization was initiated postoperatively. Functional outcomes were assessed using wrist range of motion, grip strength, visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, and PRWE/DASH scores at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. Results: Mean PRWE/DASH scores showed a significant improvement from early follow-up to six months (p < 0.05). Wrist flexion–extension arc and forearm rotation improved progressively, achieving near-functional ranges by six months. Mean grip strength increased to more than 80% of the contralateral side, while mean VAS pain scores decreased significantly over time. Conclusion: Early mobilization after volar locking plate fixation of distal radius fractures results in significant early functional improvement and pain reduction without increasing complication rates, supporting its routine use in postoperative rehabilitation.